The Impact of Climate Changes on Sustainability of Archaeological Sites at Luxor

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 tourism studies

2 Tourist Guidance Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Minia University

3 Tourism Studies Department, Faculty of Tourism and Hotels, Minia University

10.21608/mjthr.2025.430224.1225

Abstract

Climate change significantly impacts the sustainability of archaeological sites, such as rising sea levels, which negatively affect ecosystems and human communities and may lead to the submergence of some monuments. Scientists, researchers, and governments are collaborating to study the effects of climate change, assess its impacts, and develop adaptation and mitigation measures. This study aims to analyze the impact of climate change on the sustainability of archaeological sites in Luxor. To achieve this, the research employed a descriptive-analytical approach, developing and distributing a questionnaire to a random sample of 162 faculty members from tourism and hotel management colleges and archaeology colleges, experts from the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities in several governorates across Egypt, and staff working at archaeological sites in Luxor Governorate. The results of the instruments were analyzed using descriptive statistics, factor analysis, reliability analysis, coefficient analysis, and Pearson correlation analysis, supported by SPSS 25.0. The research findings demonstrate and underscore the urgent need to adopt sustainable conservation practices, including improving site drainage, conducting regular environmental monitoring, using climate-resistant conservation materials, and implementing awareness programs for local staff and visitors. The research recommended developing a long-term strategy to monitor and manage the effects of temperature fluctuations, humidity, flooding, and wind erosion on the sands of the archaeological site in Luxor. It also recommended installing advanced environmental monitoring systems to track local climate changes around major archaeological sites, such as the Karnak and Luxor temples and the Valley of the Kings.

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